But few players are built like Bradley is — driven to lead and to succeed — and, strangely, all of the bleakness helped steer him to Toronto.

Asked why he chose Toronto against competing offers, the 26-year-old, who is considered a potential future captain of the U.S. national side answered directly.

“In some ways it motivates me more,” Bradley told the Sun in a 1-on-1 interview.

“Unfortunately for this club and for this city, the team has not done as well as anybody would have hoped. And now for me, to be a part of trying to build on that and to build something special is something that I really look forward to.”

Earlier, Bradley had told a throng of media he was more motivated for this gig than any that has come before.